Deal expands aircraft lessor’s capabilities beyond leasing into teardown, used serviceable materials and lifecycle asset management
ORIX Aviation is set to expand beyond its traditional aircraft leasing business after signing an agreement to acquire UK-based aviation aftermarket specialist AerFin, a move that signals the growing convergence between aircraft leasing, asset management and end-of-life aviation services.
The transaction, which is expected to close by the end of 2026 subject to regulatory approvals, will see ORIX Aviation acquire the entire issued share capital of AerFin, marking the Japanese lessor’s first major entry into the global aviation aftermarket.
The acquisition reflects a broader shift across the aviation industry, where aircraft lessors are increasingly seeking to capture value throughout an aircraft’s lifecycle rather than focusing solely on leasing activities. By integrating aftermarket services with fleet ownership and asset management, companies are positioning themselves to benefit from rising demand for cost-effective maintenance solutions, used serviceable material (USM) and sustainable aircraft recycling.
ORIX Aviation has built its business around aircraft ownership, operating leases and asset management services for Japanese and international investors. The addition of AerFin will significantly broaden the company’s portfolio, enabling it to support customers from aircraft acquisition and leasing through to teardown, component management and aftermarket parts supply.
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AerFin has developed into a global aviation aftermarket provider specialising in aircraft and engine disassembly, component maintenance, inventory management and the sale and lease of serviceable aircraft parts. The company supports airlines, maintenance organisations and aircraft leasing companies across six continents.
By combining ORIX Aviation’s leasing expertise with AerFin’s technical capabilities, the acquisition creates a more integrated platform capable of managing aircraft throughout their operational lifecycle, including retirement and parts recovery.
James Meyler, CEO of ORIX Aviation, described the acquisition as an important milestone in the company’s long-term growth strategy.
“The acquisition of AerFin is a significant milestone for ORIX Aviation and ORIX Group as we expand our capabilities across the aircraft lifecycle. AerFin has built a leading aviation aftermarket platform, supported by an experienced management team, deep technical expertise and a global customer network. Together, we will be well positioned to deliver additional value for customers and investors, while supporting a more sustainable aviation industry through the reuse and optimisation of aircraft assets,” Meyler said.
The transaction also reflects the increasing importance of the aviation aftermarket as airlines and lessors seek alternatives to supply chain disruptions and extended lead times for new aircraft components. Demand for used serviceable materials has grown significantly in recent years as operators look to maintain ageing fleets while controlling maintenance costs.
For AerFin, the acquisition provides access to the financial resources and global reach of the ORIX Group, supporting its ambitions to expand its customer base and service portfolio.
Simon Goodson, Chief Executive Officer of AerFin, said joining ORIX Group represents the beginning of a new phase in the company’s development.
“I am delighted that AerFin is joining the ORIX Group, a business that shares our values and belief in trusted partnerships, flexible solutions and finding the way ahead for our customers,” Goodson said.
He also acknowledged AerFin founder Bob James, departing majority shareholder CataCap and the company’s employees and customers for their role in building the business.
“This is a defining moment in AerFin’s story and the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With the backing of ORIX Aviation and the wider ORIX Group organisation, we will have the support, confidence and platform to enable AerFin to become a stronger force within the industry, while continuing our ambition to be the most trusted partner in the aviation aftermarket. The best of AerFin is still to come,” he added.
The acquisition underscores a wider industry trend toward integrated aircraft lifecycle management, where leasing companies are extending their capabilities beyond financing to include maintenance support, parts distribution and end-of-life asset optimisation. As sustainability, circular economy principles and operational efficiency become increasingly important across aviation, the combination of leasing and aftermarket services is expected to play a growing role in maximising aircraft asset value while reducing waste and extending component life.
